Modelling e-waste recycling behaviour among the Malaysian public in the southern region: integrating external & internal perspectives

Electronic waste (e-waste) comprises discarded electrical and electronic equipment such as computers, televisions, smartphones, and household appliances that have reached the end of their useful life. In Malaysia, improper e-waste disposal has become a critical environmental and public health issue due to rapid technological advancement, increasing consumption, and limited public participation in formal recycling systems. This issue is particularly pressing in the Southern Region of Malaysia (Johor, Melaka, and Negeri Sembilan), where empirical evidence on e-waste recycling behaviour remains limited. This study investigates e-waste recycling behaviour among the Malaysian public by adopting an extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) framework that incorporates both internal factors (attitude, moral obligation, time availability, and waste sorting knowledge) and external factors (policy and regulation, facility support, and subjective norm). An explanatory sequential mixed-method design was employed, consisting of a quantitative survey involving 500 respondents, followed by qualitative interviews with nine key informants to enrich and explain the survey findings. The results reveal that facility support is the most influential external factor affecting e-waste recycling behaviour, highlighting the importance of accessible and convenient recycling infrastructure. Among internal factors, waste sorting knowledge emerges as the strongest predictor, indicating that individuals’ understanding of proper e-waste separation significantly influences their recycling practices. The findings contribute theoretically by extending TPB in the ewaste context and practically by informing policymakers and stakeholders on targeted strategies to improve recycling participation and sustainable e-waste management in Malaysia.